Homemade Cherry Pie with Criss-Cross Crust

This classic cherry pie recipe, complete with a beautiful criss-cross crust, is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this pie is a delightful way to celebrate the simple joys of home baking.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 5 cups fresh sweet cherries, pitted (or frozen cherries, thawed and drained)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
   • Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water and vanilla extract, mixing until dough comes together.
   • Divide dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Make the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, gently toss cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using).
   • Let stand for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Roll out one disk of dough and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
   • Pour in the cherry filling and dot with butter pieces.
   • Roll out the second disk and cut into 1-inch strips for the lattice top.
4. Create the Criss-Cross Crust:
   • Lay half the strips across the pie.
   • Fold back every other strip and place a perpendicular strip across the center.
   • Unfold the strips and repeat, weaving the remaining strips to create a lattice pattern.
   • Trim and crimp edges to seal.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection:
   • Brush the lattice with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
   • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until crust is golden and filling is bubbling.
   • Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.

Baking Tips

• For an extra-flaky crust, chill your utensils and ingredients before starting.
• If using frozen cherries, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid a soggy bottom.
• The vanilla in the crust adds a subtle warmth that complements the cherries beautifully.
• To achieve that perfect thick, jammy filling, let the pie cool completely before slicing.

There’s something magical about pulling a homemade cherry pie from the oven. The ruby-red filling peeking through the golden lattice is a sight to behold, and the first bite is pure bliss. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream, this pie is sure to bring smiles to faces young and old.

So, preheat that oven, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a little slice of heaven in your own kitchen. Happy baking!